Team News: Abel Hernandez leads Hull City line against Middlesbrough

Championship leaders Hull City welcome Middlesbrough to the KC Stadium without injured strikers Sone Aluko and Adama Diomande.

Abel Hernandez has been chosen to lead the line in their absence, while at the back Harry Maguire replaces Alex Bruce who is suffering from a groin problem.

Aitor Karanka has injury concerns of his own up front, with Hernandez's compatriot Cristhian Stuani sitting out his seventh straight game with injury.

That means David Nugent plays alone up front for fourth-placed Middlesbrough after passing a late fitness test.

Hull City: McGregor; Odubajo, Dawson, Maguire, Robertson; Elmohamady, Meyler, Livermore, Clucas, Diame; Hernandez Subs: Jakupovic, Taylor, Hayden, Huddlestone, Maloney, Akpom, Luer

Middlesbrough: Konstantopoulos; Kalas, Ayala, Amorebieta, Friend; Adomah, Zuculini, Clayton, Downing, Fabbrini; Nugent Subs: Mejias, Gibson, Leadbitter, Kike, De Pena, Stephens, Nsue